Spinal cord compression

Hi, I have lymphoma which I have been undergoing chemotherapy for. Nearly at the end of this process and hopefully will be clear later this year. Unfortunately the cancer was in my spine and compressed my spinal cord resulting in paralysis from my ribs downwards. Fortunately surgery was performed early enough that I have recovered most nerve functions. I can now walk unaided for short distances. However, I do still have numbness in my lower legs and feet and a band of pressure around my abdomen. Has anyone else gone through this scenario and should I expect the numbness and pressure band to disappear in time? I am now 6 month post surgery to remove the pressure on my spinal cord...many thanks.

  • Hi Mikeuns and welcome to Cancer Chat.

    I'm sorry about the current symptoms you're contending with at the moment Mike. They sound rather painful and uncomfortable.

    Hopefully some of our members who have had similar will pop by soon to share their experiences and advice with you but if you'd like to have a chat with someone about your situation then do give our cancer nurses a call. They're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.

    Kind regards, 

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi

    i have just joined the group. I am awaiting an operation any day for exact same symptoms as you but not so severe. I have numbness from belly button down but can walk around the house. I  only know that I have a tumor and have not had a diagnosis yet. I really hope you get better soon. Thinking of you

  • Hi, sorry to hear you are also suffering from spinal cord compression. It is a bit alarming but my situation shows that you can recover from it. I ended up having a number of spinal vertebra fused with metalwork and this seems to have worked well - now 6 months post surgery and have some discomfort but nothing too bad. Now I'm mostly through the chemotherapy I'm going to focus on rehab. 

    I hope your operation is straightforward and you're on the mend quickly...